Ancient History

Ancient History

Overview

This is an opportunity to study two fascinating periods of history: the Romans who did so much to shape our own country with towns, roads and culture, and the Greeks who have given so much to Western civilisation through their philosophy, democracy and the arts.

Course Outline

Unit 1: Greek period study (492-404 BC)
We study the struggle between Athens, Persia and Sparta, for control and influence over other Greek states, including the conflicts recorded by Herodotus and Thucydides, the finest of all ancient historians.Politics and society of ancient Sparta (478–404 BC)
We will study the peculiar state of Sparta, whose soldiers were famed for their courage and skill in battle that resulted from their extraordinary upbringing and the unusual nature of their society. Spartan women were considered highly unusual for their freedom and independence.

Unit 2:Roman period study (31 BC – AD 68)
You will investigate the Julio-Claudian Emperors who ruled during this time, focussing on the reigns of Augustus, Tiberius, Gaius, Claudius and Nero, and how they ruled the Roman Empire both by force and by peaceful means.Ruling Roman Britain (AD 43-128)
We will study the initial invasion of Britain by the Emperor Claudius in AD43, and the gradual conquest of the province up to the building of Hadrian’s Wall. In addition to the expansion of Roman military rule we will look at Celtic societies, resistance to Roman rule, such as the Boudican revolt and the increasing impact on them of the Roman civilisation and way of life.

Assessment

No Coursework
Examination (100%) – requires students to show a knowledge of ancient sources and archaeological evidence together with modern interpretations. Skills required are developed through practice questions, class discussions and small-group work aided by slides, videos and computer-based presentations.
Examining Board – OCR.

Special Entry Requirements

Prohibited Options

None.

Career and Progression Opportunities

Past students have gained entry to a wide variety of university courses including Ancient World Classical Studies, Archaeology, Ancient or Modern History, English, Law and HSPS (Human, Social & Political Sciences at Cambridge).